SLC Development XI in smashing win

Chris Dhambarage

Three sparkling half centuries from dashing opener Dilshan Munaweera, Bhanuka Rajapaksa and Ashan Priyanjana spearheaded Sri Lanka Cricket Development XI to a smashing five wicket victory over the touring South Africa ‘A’ team in their warm up match worked off at the Colts ground in Havelock Park yesterday.

Munaweera led the run chase with a top score of 70 from 65 deliveries inclusive of one six and dozen of boundaries as the home side overtook their opponents formidable total of 273 runs with five wickets and six overs to spare.

Sri Lanka youth player Bhanuka Rajapaksa and Ashan Priyanjana then consolidated the position while completing splendid half centuries to carry their side closer towards the target.

Rajapaksa hoisted one six and struck five boundaries facing 65 deliveries while Priyanjana also had one six and four boundaries during his 63 ball innings.

In between wicket keeper batsman Kusal Janith Perera and Chinthaka Jayasinghe also made useful contributions.

Earlier South Africa ‘A’ rattled up 273 runs thanks to two good knocks from Miller (63) and Philander (60). Madura Lakmal had the honour of claiming a five wicket haul for the Development XI.

South Africa ‘A’: 273 in 49.1 overs (R. Rilee 48, D. Elgar 33, D. Miller 63, D. Philander 60, M. Lakmal 5 for 44, C. Vidanapathirana 2 for 57)

SLC Development XI: 274 for 5 in 43.1 overs (D. Munaweera 70, K. Janith 32, B. Rajapaksa 51, A. Priyanjana 51 n.o, C. Jayasinghe 30, C. Ishabelala 2 for 62).